The AHS Lady Indians 25-26 basketball team recently concluded their season at Rabun High School in the first round of the state playoffs. The team had a winning season, going 14-12, with many accomplishments that were made possible through the support of each other. The team has been working together since June, 2025, and over the course of the season, they have overcome many obstacles. In the end, the obstacles the girls pushed past- such as close games that didn’t fall in their favor- resulted in them growing closer together. Josie Harris said, “It was an exciting season full of lots of growth. Our team grew very close. We made so many memories together, and we learned how to persevere through difficulties.” For example, injuries were a lingering presence over the team this year, but through it all they only bonded closer through it all. The team came very far from their summer games in June, and the only thing that made that possible was their team chemistry.
Although the season did not conclude how the team had wished, the friendships and memories that the players have made have become very crucial and very visible throughout the season. Aubrey McConkey said, “My favorite memory of the season was probably just all the times we went to eat before games. The girls always make everything so much more enjoyable.” Spending time with one another was mentioned by all the girls. Tori Vitello said, “My teammates made the season really memorable for me, even when I wasn’t in the best mood. I always looked forward to going to practice and spending time with them.” Aubrey McConkey said, “I loved spending time with all the girls. We built so much chemistry with everyone, and it was a joyful season.” When players were down on themselves on the court, the girls were quick to pick each other up and come out more confident.
Senior, Bella Duck, remained an important presence on the team even after setbacks. Bella had a terrible injury that occurred in the Amurchee vs Model game. Bella said, “I tore my ACL and partially tore my MCL and meniscus.” This injury put Bella out for the remainder of the season, ending her senior year early. Even though Bella had to be taken off the court, she continued supporting the team from the sidelines. Sophomore, Jenna Rowland said, “Bella encouraged each girl during games and gave uplifting advice that could turn all of our mindsets around.” Bella’s injury not only affected her team but it had a great impact on how she viewed this basketball season. Bella said, “My injury made me more grateful for when I was playing.” This injury also taught Bella multiple lessons. Duck said, “I learned to cherish every moment I have doing something because you never know when it will be taken away from you.” Bella left the team with her tenacity, which led the girls to push forward and hold onto goals for next season.
With the conclusion of this season, next season is already on the minds of the players and coaches. Josie Harris said, “Next season I want to improve my confidence and encourage my teammates during the game.” Josie had a big impact on the team this season, setting the school’s 3-point record. The previous 3-point record was eight threes in a game. Josie broke this record by making 9 threes for a total of fifteen points. In order to break this record, Josie Harris said, “I practiced my shot and form a lot. My teammates, mainly Kelsey Arp, tried to get me the ball.” Next year Josie will be a valuable asset to the team as an upcoming senior. Another upcoming senior, Aubrey McConkey said, “I want to improve on being more of a leader as I will be an upcoming senior.” Seniors in every sport are essential leaders on and off the court. Head coach, Michelle Arp, said, “We graduated three seniors who have contributed a lot to our team through their leadership, offense, and defensive skills.” The seniors of this season, Tori Vitello, Peyton Puckett, and Bella Duck, all lead the team at practice and at games, but at the Christmas Tournament their leadership stood out. The team won the Christmas tournament for the first time in 24 years this past December. Head Coach, Michelle Arp, said, “Some of my favorite highlights this season included winning the Gold Ball at the Christmas Tournament.” The team won the championship game against Pepperell High School, marking a major achievement for the program.
These girls are more than just a team; they are a family. Aubrey McConkey said, “They have made the season feel like a family gathering with love and enjoyment. The girls’ personalities helped create a great and successful season.” The team continued to grow throughout the season. Through the wins and losses, the team improved and gained experience. Michelle Arp said, “I am looking forward to the growth over the summer and seeing how hard work pays off as players step up into new roles for our team.” Through this season and into the next, hard work and teamwork will continue to be important for the AHS Lady Indians basketball team.
